Sound Off: Support for downtown St. Charles

The following is what our readers sounded off about this week:

Support for downtown St. Charles
I would like to respond to a recent comment in the Sound Off about the downtown St. Charles bar situation and just let it be known that I'm part of the silent majority that actually does support the entertainment district and the improvements it has brought to the downtown St. Charles area. I understand the frustrations of others who believe that, perhaps, it has gone a little too far, and it might be a little out of control. That might be true. But I would encourage the city to step up the enforcement, but overall I think they've done a great job. And I've lived in the downtown St. Charles area for more than 35 years. I think it's a good thing that has occurred, and I think a lot more people support it than don't. However, I do agree that more enforcement should be in place.

Get with it, St. Charles
I agree with "Not a college town." We have lived here for 10 years, and there are bars everywhere. How many people who are in their 50s or early 60s go to a bar until 2 o'clock in the morning? I know of not any. Bring the nice restaurants back for the people who pay the real estate taxes here. We don't want all kinds of people coming in here and making trouble. Come on, St. Charles, get with it. The City Council, get with it.

Let Clifford McIlvaine free
I am upset the way the city of St. Charles is wasting our limited taxpayer dollars on a 70-year-old man who is collecting rainwater for his personal use. I went to his court hearing, only to see him shackled in chains like someone on trial for murder. I am sure the citizens of Kane County would be displeased with the wheels of justice in our county. Let Clifford McIlvaine free.

McIlvaine should be honored
I'm calling about the Clifford [McIlvaine] problem. I think this is ridiculous for him to be in trouble for using rainwater to wash his clothes. Yes, maybe he's going a little too far with that situation; however, this guy is an environmentalist and should not be prosecuted for doing his own religion, transcendentalist, and in my view, even though I'm only 17 years old, to me this is ridiculous. This man should not be in trouble. He should be honored.

Teachers can be replaced
"So sick of teachers" said exactly what the taxpayers of Geneva are thinking. I hope the teachers realize that they are all replaceable, and there are many qualified candidates ready to take those places.

Give us a break
We, the taxpayers, who are paying for the new Batavia Fine Arts Centre, it seems only fair to give us a break on the ticket prices. Also, it would be a good idea to give senior citizens, military and public servants a break also. Isn't it better to have a filled seat at lower prices than an empty seat?

Be like Batavia
My taxes are public knowledge; so is teachers' pay. Can we print that list in the Chronicle? Soon, Geneva and St. Charles will want to be like [Batavia]. If I asked you how much does a teacher make, could anybody tell me? If they say we want a raise, how would you know if I'm paying too much, or not enough? If I asked how many days do they work or how many hours a day they work or how much they make per hour? What is late-start Thursday? Do they get a vacation? Do they get sick days? How many? Do they get free insurance? So, when they say they want a raise, ask them how much they make now. Their answer is, can't tell you, it's for the kids. Can we bring this into the open?

Watch the movie
Fellow Kane County residents, no matter what your political party affiliation, Democrat, Republican or independent, as intelligent voters, you owe it to yourself to see the movie "2016: Obama's America" and draw your own conclusions.

Obama belongs in Hollywood
It's understandable when Obama was elected, he kept talking about what he inherited from the former administration. However, three-and-a-half years later, to still be referring to President Bush and the problems in that administration, he really is simply showing his weakness, failed policies and no leadership skills. He needs to get over himself and quit making excuses. He should have gone to Hollywood instead of Washington, D.C.

Wonderful dentist
If you are looking for a dentist in the Tri-Cities area, may I make a suggestion. Dr. John Koechley on Batavia Avenue in Batavia is the best. Not only is he highly qualified, up to date on the most recent dental improvements, but he is also most kind, caring and thoughtful. I always feel like I am in the most professional and considerate dental office. Thank you, Dr. Koechley, and to your wonderful receptionist Kim, and also to your caring staff.

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